Want to attract more customers? Google 360 Tours can help! These virtual tours let people explore your business online anytime, boosting trust, visibility, and sales.
Why it matters:
How it works:
Getting started:
Bottom line: A Google 360 Tour is like a 24/7 open house for your business, helping you stand out and turn online visitors into real customers.
Now that you’re familiar with what a 360 Tour is, let’s dive into how it works and how it integrates with Google’s search features.
Google 360 Tours combine panoramic images to create an interactive experience, allowing users to navigate and explore spaces from every angle. This immersive format puts the viewer in control, offering a detailed look at your location.
A 360 Tour integrates seamlessly with Google’s platform:
By adding a 360 Tour to your Google Business Profile, it becomes visible on Google Maps, in search results, and within local listings [2]. Interestingly, 41% of Google Maps searches lead to an in-person visit [2].
Here’s how the visibility process works:
Adding a Google 360 Tour to your Google Business Profile can boost your local search visibility. Research shows that virtual tours increase interest and trust in local search results, making businesses with these features more appealing. This not only improves how often your profile is viewed but also helps build trust with potential customers, ultimately encouraging more purchases.
A virtual tour acts like a first introduction, letting potential customers get a feel for your business before they visit. Listings with interior views tend to attract more interest, and viewers are more likely to make a purchase after exploring a virtual tour [2]. This level of transparency helps guide online visitors to become in-person customers.
Think of a virtual tour as a storefront that’s always open. Even when your business is closed, people can explore your space at their convenience. This constant availability makes it easier for potential customers to decide whether to visit in person. A virtual tour ensures your business stays accessible and informative around the clock. Next, we’ll explain how to create your own 360 Tour.
Ready to dive in? Here's how to get started with your Google 360 tour.
Decide whether to hire a professional or create the tour yourself:
If you're going the DIY route, you'll need a 360° camera with these features:
Once your tour is ready, upload it to your Google Business Profile to make it visible on Search and Maps. You can also embed it on your website and share it across social media platforms. Don’t forget to update your images whenever your space changes!
Once your 360 Tour is live, the real work begins - spreading the word, keeping it fresh, and monitoring its impact.
Make your tour easy to find. Add it to your homepage or a dedicated page to increase engagement. Share the link across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and your other social profiles to reach a wider audience.
Ensure your tour stays relevant by updating images after renovations or product launches. This keeps the content fresh and helps shape how customers perceive your business.
Keep an eye on these metrics to gauge how well your tour is doing:
Google 360 Tours can significantly increase customer interest. At just $35 per viewpoint, this service includes shooting, editing, and integration with your Google Business Profile. These virtual tours allow businesses to showcase their spaces around the clock, helping potential customers make better decisions before visiting.
"Photos and virtual tours help people decide to visit a business. Ramp up your online presence and show your business in its best light, indoor and outdoor. Let your customers know what to expect while browsing Street View imagery before they visit." – Google Street View [1]
Ready to improve your visibility? Here's how to get started.
Adding a Google 360 Tour to your business profile can significantly boost your online presence and attract more customers. A virtual tour enhances your local search visibility, making it easier for potential customers to find and explore your business online. It also helps engage customers by providing an immersive experience that encourages them to spend more time learning about what you offer.
Additionally, a 360 tour builds trust and credibility by giving customers a transparent, behind-the-scenes look at your space. This can make them feel more confident about visiting or doing business with you. Research shows that businesses with virtual tours are more likely to attract in-person visits and inquiries, helping you stand out in a competitive market.
To attract more customers with your Google 360 Tour, start by featuring it prominently on your Google Business Profile, as this helps potential customers explore your space directly on Google Maps and Search. Share the tour on your social media platforms, such as Facebook and Instagram, to engage your audience with immersive content. Including the tour on your website can also enhance visitor experience and keep them engaged longer.
Listings with virtual tours are twice as likely to generate interest, and businesses with complete profiles are seen as more credible and are 78% more likely to be viewed by potential customers. By showcasing your space in an interactive way, you can stand out from competitors and make a lasting impression on your audience.
To create a high-quality Google 360 Tour yourself, you'll need a 360 camera or a DSLR setup with stitching software. For simpler setups, single-shot 360 cameras like the Insta360 ONE RS 1-Inch, Ricoh THETA Z1, or Trisio Lite 2 are excellent options. If you prefer DSLR, you'll need a camera (such as Canon or Nikon), a fisheye lens, a panoramic head, and a remote shutter.
While 360 cameras are more user-friendly, DSLR setups offer greater customization and image quality. Choose the option that best fits your budget and technical expertise to create an immersive and engaging virtual tour for your business.
Discover strategies to elevate your business.
